Take the 270-mile drive northeast of Helena to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The closest entrance to Helena is the Townsend, Tennessee entrance, which brings you into the park near Cades Cove, where you will want to stop and explore the historic buildings, including three churches, a working gristmill, barns, and log houses. If you love hiking, follow the Rocky Top option to the top of Thunderhead Mountain, which is especially beautiful in the late spring and early summer when the mountain laurel is blooming. Cades Cove Campground is open year-round and offers 159 camping spots. Then, head northeast to explore the Sugarlands area. Stop at the Sugarlands Visitors Center, and take the short hike to see Cataract Falls. Then, head out along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to see more waterfalls. Watch as you drive as this can be a great place to see wildlife, including black bears. Continuing to the east brings you to Clingman's Dome, the highest point in the park. Take time to climb the observation tower, where you can often see over 100 miles on a clear day.
Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park. There are over 50 miles of hiking trails to explore. Mountain bikers love riding along the Red Trail, which has been listed as one of 52 must-ride trails worldwide. It runs by Beaver Lake, a fantastic place to take a break and play on the beach, before continuing through the forests along this course. You will also want to walk along the Tree Top Nature Trail to see the birds and mammals being rehabilitated by the Alabama Wildlife Center. Wind Creek State Park offers public access to Lake Martin. When workers finished constructing it in 1926, it was the largest man-made lake in the world. It is a great place to go swimming, boating, fishing, and waterskiing. This state park also contains one of the largest state-operated campgrounds in the U.S., with 566 campsites. Practice your bow-and-arrow skills at the archery range or challenge your camping companions to a game of golf on the putt-putt course. Guided horseback trail rides are available. Get a better view of the trees by playing on the zipline course. Cheaha State Park contains Island in the Sky, the highest point in Alabama. Consider starting your visit at the interpretative center to learn more about the local ecosystem. Spend the night in the campground so that you can play in the highest swimming pool in the state. Guests can swim, boat, and fish. The Cheaha Wilderness is an excellent place for a hike. You can follow a short connector trail in this park to hike along part of the Appalachian Trail. Follow the Rock Gardens and Pulpit Rock trails to reach excellent rock climbing and rappelling areas.
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument consists of seven sites in Birmingham, Alabama, where the protests led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. took place leading up to the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Take a tour of the Historic Baptist Church and the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. View the Children's March Sculpture at Kelly Ingram Park and see the A.G. Gaston Motel, where African Americans planned their strategy. Follow in the footsteps of the 1965 Voting Rights March in Alabama by traveling along the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. Start your visit by touring the George Washington Carver neighborhood, where march organizers stayed with local families. See the Brown Chapel AME Church, where the march started, and Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of Bloody Sunday. View the four campsites used on the way to the Alabama State Capital Building. Freedom Riders National Monument commemorates the Freedom Riders. Wander through the Downtown Anniston Historic District to see where different events occurred in May 1961.
Safe Harbor R.V. Park in Riverside features fishing and a boat launch onto the Coosa River, where fishing tournaments are often held. Furthermore, this campground is near Interstate 20, making it easy for campers to access. About half of the sites are pull-through sites, making it convenient for those with larger Class A motorhomes. Logan Landing Cabins and RV Resort, in a private gated community in Alpine, Alabama, features a fishing pond. You can rent paddleboats, and your children will love the playground. It has over 80 miles of trails open for hiking, biking, and golf cart riding. Grandstand RV Park is near the Talladega Motor Speedway in Lincoln, Alabama. The spacious sites at this campground each have full hookups. Join family-fun activities on holiday weekends.
If I want to rent a travel trailer RV in Helena, AL, how can I tell if my vehicle can tow the trailer?
To determine if your vehicle can tow a travel trailer RV, you will need to check its towing capacity. This information can usually be found in the owner's manual or by contacting the vehicle manufacturer. It's essential to ensure that your vehicle's towing capacity meets or exceeds the weight of the travel trailer you intend to rent.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a travel trailer RV rental in Helena, AL?
When towing a travel trailer RV rental, it's crucial to be aware of its increased length and weight. Take wider turns, allow for extra braking distance, and maintain a safe and steady speed. Be cautious when changing lanes, as the trailer may affect your vehicle's stability. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and any specific regulations regarding towing trailers in your area.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a travel trailer RV rental, and how do they compare to other towable RV rentals in Helena, AL?
Travel trailer RV rentals typically offer a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience. These can include a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and sink. Bathroom facilities such as a toilet and shower are also common. Other amenities may include air conditioning, heating, cozy sleeping areas, dining spaces, and entertainment options. Comparatively, travel trailers often provide ample space and amenities when compared to other towable RV rentals.
Do I bring my bedding and linens to use in the travel trailer RV rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Be sure to check the RV listing to find if bedding is included with the rental. Not all owners provide these items, so it's advisable to check with them beforehand. As for storage options, travel trailers offer various compartments and cabinets where you can neatly store your belongings throughout your rental period.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a travel trailer RV rental during my rental period?
During your rental period, you are not expected to perform maintenance. You should however keep the RV clean and tidy up after use. Keep the exterior free from dirt and debris and clean up spills or messes promptly.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a travel trailer RV rental in Helena, AL, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Parking or storing a travel trailer RV rental may be subject to local regulations, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association rules. It's important to research and understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply in your specific area. This will help you find suitable parking or storage options for the duration of your rental.
Can I use a generator to power the travel trailer RV's electrical systems, or must I connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Travel trailer RV rentals generally have electrical systems that can be powered by either a generator or by connecting to a power source at a campground or RV park. Some rentals may include a generator, while others may require you to provide your own. It's important to discuss this with the RVshare owner to determine the specifics for your rental.
How do I properly level and stabilize a travel trailer RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss any leveling and stabilizing needs with the owner ahead of your trip. Sharing the details of where you plan to camp will allow them to provide the best guidance.
Are any unique features or amenities available in travel trailer RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Helena, AL?
Travel trailer RV rentals often come with a range of unique features and amenities. Some trailers may offer slide-out sections that expand the living space when parked. You can expect amenities such as outdoor awnings, entertainment systems, outdoor kitchens, and additional storage compartments. These features enhance the overall comfort and convenience of your travel trailer rental experience.
